Lunch Time With Her

The next morning, Rin walked into the school building, expecting… something.

Glances. Whispers. Maybe even quiet giggles from the usual people who loved to pick at her.

But there was nothing.

No one looked at her as she made her way to class. No one whispered behind her back. The hallway was the same as it always was—crowded, noisy, filled with students talking about anything and everything.

Just… normal.

For a moment, Rin wondered if she had imagined yesterday's events. Maybe she had overthought everything. Maybe it wasn't a big deal after all.

She stepped into the classroom, gripping the strap of her bag.

Still, no glances.

Still, no whispers.

It was almost unsettling, but at the same time, a relief.

She made her way to her desk and sat down. Nothing out of the ordinary. Just another normal day—

Until Sakura entered.

Rin stiffened.

This was it. Now it starts. The daily routine. The usual smirk, the teasing, the snide remarks—

But Sakura walked right past her.

No glance. No smirk. No sharp words meant to ruin Rin's morning.

She ignored her.

As if Rin wasn't even there.

What?

Rin blinked, staring at Sakura's back as she walked to her own desk, casually chatting with someone else.

That had never happened before.

She should have felt relieved—and she did. But also... confused.

Why? Why ignore her now? Was it because of Anko? Because of yesterday?

Rin clenched her hands together under the desk, biting the inside of her cheek.

Maybe this was a good thing. Maybe she shouldn't overthink it.

And then—

Anko walked in.

Unlike when Sakura entered, the air didn't tense. It didn't grow cold or stiff.

It warmed.

The shift was subtle, but it was there.

Anko wasn't loud. She didn't demand attention. She simply walked in, calm, effortless. But even so, it was impossible to ignore her presence.

She met Rin's eyes, and for a moment, Rin thought she imagined it—

That gentle smile.

"Good morning."

Soft, casual, but it lingered.

Rin felt her heart skip a beat.

She barely had time to respond before Anko walked to her desk, sitting down with that same effortless grace.

The morning continued as usual.

No drama. No teasing.

But somehow, the only thing Rin could focus on was that warm smile.

Like it could melt her heart.